SOFTENING ALZHEIMER’S TERRIBLE TOLL

Special centers offer comfort and care to patients, caregivers, family members

“As far as slowing down the progress of the disease, we don’t have that yet,” Rafii said. “That’s what all of these studies are aimed at.”

Meanwhile, early diagnosis “makes a vital difference in quality of life,” Daly said.

The stakes are high, since declining decision-making skills can make people susceptible to scams, car crashes or other accidents. People may forget to take medications for other illnesses, worsening the conditions.

“A diagnosis of Alzheimer’s is devastating, but knowledge also is power,” Daly said. “When people get the diagnosis at an early stage, it allows them to participate in planning for the rest of their lives.”

For Jean Nelson, the diagnosis allowed the family, including her adult sons, to talk about what they want for John.

“My sons know that eventually things are going to advance, and he may need to go to a nursing home,” she said. “But we still go to the park and to museums. John enjoys it, and I want to keep him home with me as long as possible. He is very dear to me.”